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Visbeen Architects' award for best design in the South Atlantic region is for its Laurel design for a home in Bluffton, S.C. Courtesy Visbeen

Grand Rapids is now home to one of the nation's most recognized architecture firms.

Best in American Living

Visbeen Architects, a custom residential and commercial architecture firm, took home six awards last month at the annual Best in American Living Awards, a national competition sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders and Professional Builder magazine.

The event in Las Vegas celebrates innovative design projects by firms connected to the association.

Out of thousands of national participants, Visbeen Architects won one platinum, two gold, two silver and the best design in the South Atlantic region.

The firm was the only winner from West Michigan, said Angela Mulder, a spokesperson for Visbeen Architects.

One of the gold awards is for a house in South Haven, and one silver award is for a house in Rockford.

Laurel design

Visbeen Architect's major award is for the best design in the South Atlantic region — for its Laurel design for a house in Bluffton, S.C.

Custom Classics, a South Carolina-based custom homebuilder, served as the builder, interior designer and interior merchandiser.

“The Laurel was a project that required a rigorous lesson in Southern architectural vernacular,” according to the association’s website. “As the site is located in the hot climate of the Carolina shoreline, the home aims to capture cross breezes through outdoor entertainment spaces.

“The home features three covered porches, one partially covered courtyard and a screened porch. The main level floor plan centers on common living spaces, while allowing for a luxurious master suite. The upstairs loft includes two bed and bath suites, providing ample room for guests.”

Visbeen’s Mulder said that she thinks the win is “really a nod to the NAHB for recognizing an efficient, well-thought out" house plan.

"We should also credit the builders,” Mulder added.

The firm

Visbeen Architects, founded 1992, has done work in about 35 states and is working on projects in about 10 different countries, Mulder said.

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